Learning about online sexual harm

The study found that online sexual harm was a common feature of young people’s online experiences, with exposure to risks often viewed as a normal part of internet use. While participants were generally aware of risks posed by adult strangers, they demonstrated less understanding of harms occurring within peer relationships and existing social networks. Schools were identified as the primary source of learning about online sexual harm, but many participants felt education was delivered too late and relied too heavily on "stranger danger" messages. Young people called for earlier, ongoing and more nuanced education that addresses consent, relationships, peer-to-peer harms, reporting pathways, and the emotional impacts of abuse. Participants also emphasised that responsibility for online safety should not rest solely with children and young people, highlighting the important roles of families, schools, industry and wider society in preventing harm and supporting those affected.